If the Buddha Got Stuck: A Handbook for Change on a Spiritual Path

"Buddhism offers a gentle... understanding of being stuck and getting unstuck," writes Kasl (If the Buddha Dated), referring to a variety of stubborn problems that can interfere with life, including feeling intractably "bored, scared, protective, petty, exhausted, afraid or unfulfilled." In 60-plus brief chapters featuring discussions and therapy-type strategies deeply rooted in Buddhist teachings, Kasl guides readers on a journey of self-discovery. She begins by inviting them to notice where they are stuck, and then asks them to simply "show up" to life with a sense of "fascination and curiosity." She implores them to be mindful and to trust in the power of engaging reality directly without interpretive lenses (acknowledging difficulties in a relationship, for example, instead of making excuses). She then explores the importance of connecting with others, of acting on insights and the "ultimate step" of letting go the temporal self, an act that brings "abiding happiness." Throughout, she intersperses exercises to help readers engage the lessons more personally. Kasl's approach is compelling: her discussions are simple but never simplistic; her tone is warmly inviting but not obsequious; and her insights are both penetrating and accessible. Occasionally her supporting illustrations veer into the cheesy, but overall Kasl offers a challenging, practical and disarmingly effective approach to getting out of life's ruts.
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Praise for If the Buddha Got Stuck and Charlotte Kasl

“If the Buddha Got Stuck provides a roadmap to freedom and greater possibilities. Regardless of your starting place, Kasl will help you achieve greater joy, authenticity, and peace of mind. . . . Encouraging, practical, beautifully written.” —Laura Davis, author of I Thought We'd Never Speak Again and coauthor of The Courage to Heal

“Charlotte Kasl's new book overflows with insight, humor and eminently practical suggestions.” —Anita Doyle, former Director of the Jeannette Rankin Peace Center

“[Charlotte Kasl] adds an entirely new level of understanding to our lives through love and not fear.” —Geneen Roth, author of When Food is Love

“If previous attempts to work with your life from a Western philosophical or psychological perspective encountered gaps . . . [consider this] your bridge.” —Rowan Conrad, PhD, Director, Open Way Mindfulness Center

“If The Buddha Got Stuck brings perspective, inspiring stories, and useful exercises to feel less overwhelmed by life's difficulties.” —Lisa M. Najavits, Ph.D., Associate Professor in Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and author of Seeking Safety: A Treatment Manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse

“[If The Buddha Had Kids] brings the wisdom of the ages to bear to help parents inways that are extraordinarily inspiring and remarkably practical.You discover compassion for your child and compassion for yourself.” —Marti Erikson, PhD, coauthor of Last Child in the Woods

Charlotte Kasl, Ph.D., a practicing therapist and nationally recognized workshop leader for more than 20 years, has had lifelong connections to feminism, Buddhism, Quaker practice, and Reiki healing. The author of several books including Finding Joy, she lives in Lolo, Montana.